Two university students, Luo and Ma, are sent to a mountain mining village in 1971 China as part of their reeducation duty. Amidst the harsh conditions, they find solace in music and the presence of local young women. They become fascinated with the beautiful granddaughter of the local tailor and set out to win her over, sharing forbidden books of classic western literature with her. This journey profoundly changes her perspective and teaches the boys about the power of literature and their own ability to effect change.
Balzac and the Little Chinese Seamstress
In a distant village, a young couple discovers a hidden love amidst a Maoist re-education program, as they become entangled in a secret romance with the tailor's granddaughter, leading to a life-changing experience.